Shillong: Six prominent pressure groups from Garo Hills hit the GHADC with a fresh list of demands. They met with Chief Executive Member Dhormonath Sangma on Tuesday to push for urgent structural changes. The consortium includes the Association for Democracy and Empowerment, A'chik Holistic and Awakening Movement, A'chik Youth Welfare Organisation, Federation for A'chik Freedom, Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People, and the Garo Students' Union.
These groups gave the current Executive Committee credit for recent wins. They cited the new GHADC Service Rules and a fresh online portal for financial transactions as clear progress. Now, they want the council to keep moving. They argue that more reform is required to protect the local indigenous population.
A major focus remains the push for a separate electoral roll limited only to tribal members. The groups maintain that this change is vital for their future. "The fundamental objective of GHADC is to preserve our unique way of life, traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. Maintaining the sanctity of this venerable institution is therefore paramount. In this context, the demand for a separate electoral roll—comprising only tribal members—reflects the genuine aspirations of our people," the memorandum stated. A committee is already digging into this issue, but the groups want to see the legislation passed fast.
The coalition also demanded the formal codification of Garo Customary Law. They told the CEM to start talks with all stakeholders to reach a consensus on the proposed Bill. They believe clear, written laws will keep their traditions safe. The groups urged the office to act quickly to move the legislation forward.
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